Went away for 1 week without DD 20 months & now she cries hysterically at bedtime

[Ferretgirl]

Help! 20 month DD always been a pretty good sleeper, never had any problems putting her down in her cot. But we went away for 1 week on our honeymoon and left her with grandparents and no matter what I try, I can't put her in her cot and leave the room while she's awake as she becomes hysterical. She stands in her cot sobbing and screaming 'mummeee', makes my heart bleed.

I know that she must be feeling a bit insecure so for the past 2 weeks, I've given in to her and sat in her room while she falls asleep hoping that she might realise that i'm not going anywhere. It seems to be getting worse though and I think I need to use some tough love. Any suggestions?

she is bound to be upset. i would carry on as you are, and do a gradual retreat from the room. stay by her cot at first, then a bit further away etc to you are at the door, then just outside the door. just reassure her you are there, do a lot of shushhing, a lot of patting and she will get theere eventually.